2 Timothy 1:13
Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
2 Timothy 1:13
Paul urges Timothy to hold fast to the “form of sound words” heard from him, with a faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. The phrase points to a faithful, orderly tradition of truth that Timothy must protect, imitate, and transmit. In a context where false teachers threaten sound doctrine, this is a clarion call to preserve core teaching.
This verse highlights the integrity and continuity of apostolic teaching. It emphasizes doctrinal clarity, fidelity, and the role of sound doctrine as the foundation for faith and love in Christ. Holding fast to sound words ensures identity, unity, and mission of the church.
Practical steps: study Scripture to discern truth from error, memorize key verses, and teach them in ways that emphasize both belief and love. Encourage churches to maintain doctrinal clarity with humility and charity. When encountering splintering or false teaching, return to the core gospel: grace in Christ, the authority of Scripture, and the call to love God and neighbor.
Cross-References
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17
- Titus 1:9
- 1 Timothy 4:13-16
- Colossians 2:7